Aligarh: The Centre of Professional Courses, in collaboration with the Department of Commerce at Aligarh Muslim University organized an international conference on ‘Global Business and Socio-Economic Development in the 21st Century: Teachings of Holy Prophets and Other World Philosophers’.

The conference brought together eminent speakers and researchers, and participants from various academic and professional backgrounds, to discuss a multitude of religious teachings and philosophical insights with special reference to contemporary business and socio-economic practices.

The chief guest, Prof Chandrashekhar, Vice Chancellor at Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh State University of Aligarh emphasized the enduring relevance of ethical principles derived from religious and philosophical teachings in shaping modern business practices. He underscored the need for integrating these teachings into business education to foster a generation of leaders committed to ethical and socially responsible practices.

He also highlighted how the moral foundations of historical figures like Confucius, Aristotle, and the Holy Prophet can guide businesses towards sustainable and equitable development in the 21st century.

The guest of honour Dr Merajuddin, former Minister, drew parallels between the teachings of various prophets and philosophers, such as Prophet Muhammad's emphasis on social justice and Mahatma Gandhi's advocacy for non-violence and ethical living.

Narendra Singh, DIG, Delhi and Prof Raj Kumar from the University of Delhi delivered enlightening and inspiring keynote addresses.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Convener of the conference and former Chairman, the Department of Commerce, Prof Nawab Ali Khan highlighted the relevance of ancient teachings in addressing contemporary socio-economic challenges. He emphasized integrating ethical and philosophical insights from various cultural and religious traditions into modern business strategies to promote sustainable and inclusive development.

Prof Mohd Asif Khan, Conference Chairman, introduced the conference theme, highlighting the relevance and impact of holy prophets' teachings and world philosophers' teachings on contemporary business and socio-economic practices.

Prof SM Imamul Haque, Chairperson, Department of Commerce and Co-Patron, shed light on the significance of the conference. He said that throughout the day, seven sessions were held, including two online sessions where international delegates delved into various aspects of the conference theme.

Prof Tarek Tawfik Alkhateeb, Department of Economics, Kafrelsheikh University of Cairo, Prof Rasheedul Haque, Faculty of Business, Hospitality, Accounting and Finance, Mahasa University of Malaysia, Prof Md Zahir Uddin Arif, Chairman, Department of Marketing, Faculty of Business Studies, Jagannath University of Dhaka and Dr Shariq I Sherwani of Utah Tech University, addressed the various technical sessions chaired by Prof Ayesha Farooq, Dean, Faculty of Faculty of Management Studies and Research, Prof Jabir Hasan, Chairman, Department of Geography, Prof Parvaiz Talib, former Dean and Chairman, Department of Business Administration, Prof Athar Ansari, Former Chairman, Department of Community Medicine and Prof Mohd Khalid Azam, Former Dean and Chairman, Department of Business Administration.

Prof Luqman Khan, former Vice Chancellor, GD Goenka and MAJ University, Rampur, the chief guest at the valedictory session of the conference, emphasized the importance of integrating philosophical and prophetic teachings into contemporary business models to achieve sustainable socio-economic development.

Prof Mohd Shadab Khan and Prof M Shamim Ansari, Co-Conveners, extended a vote of thanks, while Ayesha Tanweer, a student of MHRM II Sem, conducted the programme.